Mount Igueldo

When people visit San Sebastian, there are certain places that are a must-see, such as La Concha Bay or the Old Town, something that all San Sebastian locals would agree on. But there are other places in the city that we believe are also essential when getting to know Donostia, one of which is Mount Igueldo.

Mount Igueldo, or Igeldo in Basque, marks the western boundary of La Concha Bay. It is located next to Ondarreta Beach and is easily recognisable by the villas on its slopes and its hotel and tower at the top. This tower, incidentally, in its oldest version, was the mountain’s lighthouse, known as La Farola (The Street Lamp).

We always recommend Mount Igueldo for its views, perhaps the best in the whole city, as from the top you can see La Concha Bay and beyond perfectly. On clear days you can even see Biarritz in France!

The Mount Igueldo funicular railway

Although there are several ways to get to the top of Mount Igueldo and enjoy the incredible views, the best way, in our opinion, is to take the funicular. This little train was inaugurated in 1912 and has been a favourite with children and adults alike in San Sebastian ever since. The funicular still has all its original features, including the cable, and is sure to delight everyone who rides it. Just thinking of taking it makes us excited!

The Mount Igueldo funicular is the third oldest funicular in Spain and the journey takes just three minutes, climbing a 312-metre slope. Once at the top, not only will you have spectacular views of the bay and much of Donosti, but you can also visit the Mount Igueldo amusement park.

The amusement park

Also opened in 1912, many of the attractions we see today date from after that time, but are equally old and full of charm. These include the Cosmicar, bumper cars, trampolines, the Walk of Laughter, the Mysterious River and the jewel in the crown: the Swiss Mountain.

The Swiss Mountain is a roller coaster built in 1928 and is currently the oldest steel roller coaster in the world still in operation. It is not called “russian mountain”, as roller coasters are called in Spanish, because, at the time it was built, its mechanism was said to be as complex as a Swiss watch, hence its name. Regardless of its name, it is the park’s most beloved attraction and one that you simply must ride.

And don’t let its age put you off, the Swiss Mountain is in perfect condition. What’s more, along with the Mysterious River, it’s the attraction with the best views in the park, as it’s located at the top of the cliffs of Igueldo, from where you can see the coast of Gipuzkoa perfectly. A minute and a half ride that’s impossible to forget.

The Way of Saint James

However, if amusement parks are not your thing, Mount Igueldo has other attractions, such as the Way of St James, which passes through here. The trail starts very close to where you catch the funicular and reaches the village of Orio after about three hours of walking with sea views. It’s an easy stage, accessible to everyone regardless of their fitness level, as if you don’t want to climb the first hill, you can always take the funicular.

Once in Orio, you can rest, go to the beach to cool off or eat at one of its many restaurants and bars. A great plan for any summer day when it’s not too hot if you enjoy hiking!

Explore Mount Igueldo and discover every corner of San Sebastián with Free Walking Tour

Visiting Mount Igueldo is something we always recommend on our tours. Whether it’s for the views, the park or to follow the Camino de Santiago, it’s a plan that never fails. If you want to discover more places like this and get to know the city better, come with Free Walking Tour San Sebastián. We’ll show you around like a local friend would.